Germany Offers Naval Mine Clearance in Strait of Hormuz Amid NATO Criticism
President Donald Trump criticized NATO for its perceived inaction during the Strait of Hormuz crisis, stating that the alliance was 'useless' when needed. Meanwhile, Germany has offered to contribute to clearing naval mines in the strait as part of a Europe-led mission. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated that any deployment would require parliamentary approval and ideally a U.N. mandate. Germany's expertise in mine clearance, developed through operations in the Baltic Sea, positions it as a key player in ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.